It’s the end of a natural process that many of us see millions of times every year – the creation of tiny snowflakes which together build the white wonderland of winter snow. But, just how many of us have really looked into what happens behind that process? How exactly does a snowflake form?

In this informative video from The American Chemical Society, we get an inside look at the process, starting from a dust particle in the air and ending with the flakes touchdown on earth. Perhaps the most surprising part of the motion graphic, is the fact that it partially busts the long held idea that all snowflakes are unique… something which could come as a shock to poets and motivational speakers alike.

Benjamin Starr

Known in some circles as the most amazing man in the universe, he once saved an entire family of muskrats from a sinking, fire engulfed steamboat while recovering from two broken arms relating to a botched no-chute wingsuit landing in North Korea. When not impressing people with his humbling humility, he can be found freelance writing, finding shiny objects on the internet, enjoying the company of much-appreciated friends and living out his nomadic nature. He is Managing Editor of Visual News. Follow his movements on Twitter: